Episode 7 – The Best CMA Exam Prep Secrets By IMA’s Vice President

In this episode of The CMA Show, I have a very special guest who will reveal the best-kept CMA exam prep secrets. He has more than 23 years of experience with the IMA, is a certified management accountant, certified financial manager, and certified association executive.

Impressive resume, right?

Dennis Whitney is the Senior Vice President of the Institute of Management Accountants and has heaps of knowledge to share with us about how to prepare for the CMA exam. The advice and information he shares in this episode are truly invaluable to future CMA candidates, so let’s dive right in.

To listen in, click the play button at the top of the page, download this in iTunes or listen on Stitcher.

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Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Week’s Episode:

• A deeper look into what Dennis actually does for the IMA
• An insider look into the CMA exam structure and why it has been created this way
• Which sections of the textbook candidates should focus their studying on
• Strategies for tackling the essay section of the exam (do note that essay questions will be gradually replaced by case-based questions starting in 2026)
• How to pass the essay section if English is not your first language
• Dennis’ top tip for crushing the multiple-choice questions section
• The prerequisites you must fulfill in order to become a CMA
• Dennis’ advice for those about to take the exam for the first time
• How the CMA is expanding globally and what we can expect from it in the future
• When to consider asking for a regrade on your exam score

CMA Exam Secrets Revealed

In addition to the tips, advice, and strategies shared by Dennis in this podcast episode, I’d like to share a few of my own proven strategies to help you pass the CMA exam on your first attempt.

Secret #1: A CMA course works

A high-quality CMA review course can be the difference between passing and failing. The right course provides structure, accountability, and a clear roadmap, which self-studying candidates often lack.

A strong CMA review course should include comprehensive study materials, video or audio lectures, extensive practice questions, and model answers. The CMA Exam Academy’s 16-Week Accelerator Program also includes personalized coaching to keep you focused and on track.

Every review course has its strengths, but choosing the right one is an investment that can significantly increase your chances of passing.

Secret #2: You can pick your own study plan

Going “with the flow” is not a strategy. You need a detailed study plan that outlines your exam date and goals. A structured study plan establishes measurable benchmarks and keeps you accountable, ensuring you cover all the material tested before exam day.

You can create your own study plan, or you might prefer using one built into a CMA review course for added guidance.

Secret #3: Pick a study method

Successful candidates don’t just study hard—they study smart. One proven technique is the SQ3R method: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. This approach improves comprehension and retention, especially when working through dense accounting and finance material.

Whatever method you choose, commit to it. Consistency in how you study is just as important as the time you put in.

Secret #4: You need to study for 16 weeks

Many candidates underestimate the time required to prepare. While some study for only eight to 12 weeks, most candidates require about 16 weeks to study for each exam part.

Sixteen weeks is enough time to fully understand the material, practice extensively, and take mock exams. This can help increase your odds of passing on your first try.

Secret #5: Start with the right content

The CMA exam consists of Part One and Part Two, each covering a broad range of topics. Choosing the right part to start with can build momentum and confidence earlier on.

As a general guideline, accounting majors often find Part One more aligned with their background. Meanwhile, finance majors may feel more comfortable beginning with Part Two.

Starting with the section that matches your strengths can make the overall journey smoother and more manageable.

Resources:

• CMA Exam Academy Article Library — The most comprehensive online resource for CMA candidates
• CMA Study Tools — Access our test bank, audio and video lectures, formula guides, and so much more.
• CMA Exam Academy’s 16-Week Accelerator Program — The best online, instructor-led CMA review course
• Get in touch with Dennis Whitney — email him at [email protected]
• IMAnet.org — learn more about the CMA

Like what you heard? Be sure to share it with your friends, family, or coworkers.

FAQs

How long should I study for the CMA exam?

Most candidates should plan to study about 16 weeks for each part of the CMA exam. While some candidates try to prepare in eight to 12 weeks, 16 weeks provides enough time to fully absorb the material, practice extensively, complete mock exams, and build the speed and accuracy needed for exam day. Your timeline may vary based on your accounting or finance background and available study time, but a structured 16-week-per-part study plan is one of the most reliable paths to passing on the first attempt. 

Should I take CMA Part 1 or Part 2 first?

The best part to take first depends on your background. Accounting majors often start with Part One because it focuses on external financial reporting, planning, budgeting, cost management, and internal controls, while finance majors may prefer Part Two, which emphasizes financial statement analysis, corporate finance, business decision analysis, enterprise risk management, capital investment decisions, and ethics. Either order is acceptable to the IMA, but starting with the part that best matches your strengths can help you build confidence and momentum.

Do I need a CMA review course to pass the exam?

You don’t technically need a CMA review course to pass the exam, but for many candidates it can make the difference between passing and failing. A strong review course provides the structure, accountability, study materials, lectures, practice questions, and model answers that self-study often lacks, while some programs also include personalized coaching. Self-study can work for disciplined candidates with strong accounting backgrounds, but given the CMA exam’s roughly 50% global pass rate, a quality review course is often a worthwhile investment. 

What are the prerequisites to become a CMA?

To become a CMA, you must meet three requirements set by the IMA: earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (or an approved professional certification), complete two continuous years of management accounting or financial management experience, and maintain active IMA membership while enrolled in the CMA program. You’ll also need to pass both Part One and Part Two of the CMA exam. Before you begin, review the latest IMA CMA Handbook, as requirements can change over time. 

Can I take both parts of the CMA exam in the same testing window?

Yes, you can take both parts of the CMA exam in the same testing window, but it’s generally not recommended for most candidates. CMA Coach Nathan Liao typically advises focusing on one part per testing window to avoid feeling overwhelmed and give yourself the best chance of passing. That said, if you have a strong accounting or finance background and can dedicate 20–25 hours per week to studying, taking both parts in a single window is absolutely possible 

More from the CMA Exam Academy

• CMA Exam Changes in 2026: Introducing Case-Based Questions (CBQs)
• CMA Certification Requirements: Know What It Takes to Get Your CMA in 2026
• CMA Certification Cost: How Much Time and Money You’ll Spend
• How to Become a CMA: 10 Steps to Getting Certified
• How to Pass the CMA Exam in Your First Attempt (Guaranteed!)
• CMA Exam Release Dates for 2026: Here’s the Inside Scoop

Hi, I’m Nathan Liao (aka the CMA Coach)! For the last 11 years, over 100,000 accounting and finance leaders came knocking at my door seeking guidance and help. If you’re also aiming to pass the CMA exam on your very first try—without wasting away time or money—you’ve found your ultimate guide. Dive in deeper to discover more about me and the dedicated team that powers CMA Exam Academy. Click here and let’s embark on this journey together!